SMBC Aviation Capital has announced that it has signed definitive lease agreements with United Airlines for twenty Airbus A321neo aircraft. The aircraft, previously announced as part of United’s fleet plan in April, are scheduled to deliver from 2026 and will come from SMBC Aviation Capital’s direct Airbus orderbook. This deal announcement is in addition to a recently completed 20 aircraft (Boeing 737-8 MAX) sale and leaseback transaction between SMBC Aviation Capital and United Airlines.
Commenting on the deal, United Airlines Chief Financial Officer, Michael Leskinen said, “The relationship between SMBC and United has never been stronger and these leases are a meaningful part of our efforts to optimize our balance sheet and to increase our return on capital. We thank SMBC for its continued support and partnership.”
Also commenting was the Chief Commercial Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, Barry Flannery said, “These, new, more fuel-efficient aircraft will allow United to further grow their fleet and we are delighted to support them in this strategy. These agreements highlight the importance of our long-standing relationship with United and we look forward to many more years of successful partnership.”
